Europe’s motorcycle market in 2026–2027 is driven by practical middleweights, adventure tourers, and A2-friendly models—not only high-horsepower flagships. Italy, Spain, Germany, France, and the UK lead registrations. Honda and Yamaha stay strong on volume, while BMW still owns the big adventure class. Below are ten popular bikes worth buying for daily riding, touring, and long-term value, with enough detail to help you choose.
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| Top 10 Popular Bikes in Europe |
How We Picked These Bikes
- Strong sales and demand across major EU markets
- Updated or current model years for 2026–2027
- Parts, dealer support, and resale value in Europe
- Mix of adventure, naked, sport-touring, and license-friendly options
Always check local A1/A2/A license rules, insurance, and Euro emissions compliance before you buy. Specs and prices vary by country and model year.
1. BMW R1300GS
The GS is still the bike many European riders dream about—and buy. The R1300GS is lighter and more agile than older GS models, with a liquid-cooled boxer twin that pulls hard on motorways and mountain roads. Optional Dynamic ESA suspension, big tank range, and a huge accessory list (panniers, heated grips, navigation mounts) make it a true all-rounder.
It shines on long trips across Germany, the Alps, and Scandinavia, but it also works as a daily bike if you accept the size and price. Service costs are higher than Japanese rivals, yet resale stays strong because demand never really drops.
Best for: long-distance touring, all-weather commuting, and riders who want one bike for everything.
Official page: BMW R1300GS
2. Yamaha MT-07
The MT-07 has been a European bestseller for years, and for good reason. Its 689 cc CP2 parallel twin is lively, easy to ride, and cheap to maintain. The bike feels light in cities, fun on back roads, and calm enough for new riders who have just moved up from a 125.
A2-restrictable versions keep it popular with younger riders in France, Italy, Spain, and the UK. Insurance is usually reasonable, parts are easy to find, and the used market is huge if you sell later. It is not the most powerful bike on this list, but it is one of the most enjoyable for everyday use.
Best for: first “real” bike, city-to-highway commuting, and riders who want fun without high costs.
Official page: Yamaha MT-07
3. Honda CB750 Hornet
Honda’s Hornet 750 brings modern streetfighter looks, a smooth 755 cc parallel twin, and classic Honda reliability. It sits in the same class as the MT-07 and GSX-8S, with a friendly power delivery and a riding position that works for both short and tall riders.
Dealers across Europe stock Hornets and service them easily, which matters if you travel or move countries. Running costs stay low, and the bike feels refined rather than aggressive. If you want a naked bike that just works—rain, traffic, weekend rides—the Hornet is a smart 2026–2027 buy.
Best for: reliable naked ownership, low drama, and riders who value dealer support.
Official page: Honda CB750 Hornet
4. Yamaha MT-09
Step up from the MT-07 and you get the MT-09’s 890 cc CP3 triple: more torque, more sound, and more character. Recent updates improved electronics, traction control, and ergonomics, so it is less raw than early models but still exciting.
This is a full A-license streetfighter for riders who already have experience. It is popular for weekend canyon runs and sporty commuting, but it can feel busy in stop-start traffic compared with softer middleweights. If you want a bike that makes you grin every time you open the throttle, the MT-09 delivers.
Best for: experienced riders who want torque, agility, and a lively triple engine.
Official page: Yamaha MT-09
5. Honda Africa Twin (CRF1100L)
The Africa Twin is one of Honda’s top adventure sellers in Europe. The 1,084 cc parallel twin is tuned for real-world travel, not just brochure horsepower. Long-travel suspension, solid ground clearance, and optional DCT (dual-clutch automatic) make it easy on long days and mixed surfaces.
Many European owners use it for road touring with light gravel and mountain tracks. DCT is a big plus in cities and on Alpine hairpins. It is more off-road capable than a pure tourer, yet more comfortable than a hardcore enduro. Expect strong reliability and a wide network of Honda dealers.
Best for: adventure touring, optional DCT comfort, and mixed road-plus-gravel trips.
Official page: Honda Africa Twin
6. Triumph Trident 660
The Trident 660 is a stylish British triple that feels more premium than its price suggests. Around 660 cc and A2-friendly (with the right kit), it is a favorite for riders stepping up from small bikes who still want character and a quality finish.
It is especially popular in the UK and growing across the EU. The engine is smooth and flexible, the chassis is light, and the look stands out next to plain Japanese twins. Service intervals and dealer coverage are solid in major markets. If style and sound matter as much as specs, put the Trident high on your list.
Best for: A2 riders, stylish daily use, and anyone who wants a triple without a big budget.
Official page: Triumph Trident 660
7. KTM 790 Duke (2027)
KTM’s updated 790 Duke for the 2027 model year (arriving at many dealers from mid to late 2026) keeps the sharp “Scalpel” personality. The 799 cc LC8c twin makes about 95 hp in EU tune, with A2 restriction available. New WP suspension and brakes aim for better comfort and control without a big price jump.
It competes with the MT-07, Hornet, and GSX-8S, but feels more aggressive and track-day ready. Orange branding and a sporty riding position attract younger riders. Service can cost more than Honda or Yamaha, so budget for that. Buy it if you want a middleweight that feels alive in corners.
Best for: lively handling, sporty naked riding, and riders who like KTM’s sharp character.
Official page: KTM 790 Duke
8. Suzuki GSX-8S
The GSX-8S pairs a refined 776 cc parallel twin with modern electronics and a relaxed, upright riding position. Power is strong enough for motorways, yet friendly in town. Many European buyers pick it because it often undercuts rivals on price while matching them on everyday usability.
It is a true all-rounder: commute Monday to Friday, tour on weekends, and still enjoy twisty roads. The engine is smooth, vibration is well controlled, and the bike feels planted. If you want balance more than hype, the GSX-8S is one of the best value buys for 2026–2027.
Best for: all-round performance, comfort, and strong value for money.
Official page: Suzuki GSX-8S
9. Honda SH350i
Scooters still dominate daily two-wheel travel in Italy, Spain, and France. The SH350i is a premium urban machine: under-seat storage, weather protection, and enough power for ring roads and short intercity trips. It is not a weekend canyon weapon, but it is one of the smartest “bikes” for real European city life.
Fuel use is low, parking is easy, and Honda reliability keeps ownership simple. If your main use is commuting, shopping, and avoiding traffic, the SH350i often beats a full motorcycle on comfort and practicality. Check local license rules—many markets treat it as A2 or A depending on power and age.
Best for: city commuting, short trips, and riders who prioritize storage and ease of use.
Official page: Honda SH350i
10. Ducati Multistrada V4
The Multistrada V4 is the premium adventure choice for riders who want top-tier performance. The V4 Granturismo engine is strong and smooth at speed, while radar options, cornering ABS, and advanced electronics suit long Alpine and Autobahn miles.
Purchase price and service costs are higher than Japanese adventure bikes, but the ride quality and tech package are excellent. It is popular with high-mileage European tourers who want comfort, power, and status in one package. Buy it if budget allows and you will actually use the performance and features.
Best for: premium touring, high annual mileage, and riders who want flagship adventure tech.
Official page: Ducati Multistrada V4
Quick Comparison
| Bike | Type | Engine (approx.) | License | Buy if you want… |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW R1300GS | Adventure | Boxer twin ~1,300 cc | A | Touring king |
| Yamaha MT-07 | Naked | 689 cc twin | A2 / A | Fun and value |
| Honda CB750 Hornet | Naked | 755 cc twin | A2 / A | Reliability |
| Yamaha MT-09 | Naked | 890 cc triple | A | Triple character |
| Honda Africa Twin | Adventure | 1,084 cc twin | A | Road + gravel |
| Triumph Trident 660 | Naked | 660 cc triple | A2 / A | Style + A2 |
| KTM 790 Duke | Naked | 799 cc twin | A2 / A | Sharp handling |
| Suzuki GSX-8S | Naked | 776 cc twin | A2 / A | All-round value |
| Honda SH350i | Scooter | 330 cc single | A2 / A | City practicality |
| Ducati Multistrada V4 | Adventure | V4 Granturismo | A | Premium touring |
Buying Tips for 2026–2027
- Test ride at least two rivals in the same class before you pay a deposit.
- Budget for gear, insurance, and first service—not only the sticker price.
- Check Euro emissions and any local low-emission zone rules in your city.
- For A2 riders, confirm the official restrictor kit and dealer paperwork.
- Petrol still dominates European registrations; buy electric only if your range and charging fit daily use.
- Compare total cost of ownership: fuel, tyres, service intervals, and insurance quotes.
Conclusion
For most European riders in 2026–2027, the smartest buys are proven middleweights and adventure bikes with strong dealer networks. Choose the MT-07, Hornet 750, GSX-8S, or Trident 660 for daily fun and value. Pick the GS or Africa Twin for distance, the SH350i for pure city life, and the Multistrada V4 if you want premium touring. Match the bike to your license, roads, and budget—then prioritize reliability and support over hype.
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